DISRUPTION is expected in Rawdon this month as major work gets underway to replace a 100 year old sewer.

Apperley Lane will be closed one way for nine weeks to allow 250 metres of new sewer to be laid, replacing the old one which was temporarily repaired after a collapse in 2015.

Yorkshire Water is apologising in advance for any disruption caused but stressing the work is essential to prevent flooding to houses and the danger of a road collapse.

A spokesman said: "At the time of the collapse, we could only complete a temporary repair of the sewer as it is located so deep underground. We now need to return and carry out the permanent repairs in order to reduce the risk of sewer flooding and further damage to the road."

Work will begin on Monday, July 24 and will be carried out by Mott MacDonald Bentley, who will be working from the roundabout to the Micklefield Lane junction. Preparation works will start during the week of July 17 and the whole scheme is expected to take around 11 weeks to complete.

On its website Yorkshire Water says: "For safety reasons and due to the size of the equipment needed for this work, we need to close Apperley Lane one way for nine weeks.

"We have liaised with Leeds City Council Highways and traffic will be permitted to travel in a southerly direction (towards Bradford) along Apperley Lane but will utilise the north bound running lane.

"Traffic travelling north bound in the direction of Rawdon or towards Leeds Bradford Airport will be diverted along Micklefield Lane and the A65, New Road Side.

"We understand this project is going to be disruptive but it’s essential that we repair this sewer to prevent sewer flooding to local homes and the road collapsing.

"We’re carrying out the majority of the work in school summer holidays in order to reduce disruption. We recommend planning extra time for journeys, especially if travelling to the airport during peak hour periods.

"At the end of the nine week one-way road closure, we’ll need to have traffic lights in place on Apperley Lane for two weeks."

The company says pedestrian access will be maintained at all times and access will also be maintained for people living within the closure area. Buses will run as normal, following the diversion route, and water and sewerage services will not be affected.

"Local businesses will remain open and we ask that you please continue to support them during this time," the company says. "We’re sorry for any inconvenience caused. Please be assured we’ll do everything we can to keep disruption to a minimum and complete the work as quickly as possible."

Yorkshire water says it is unlikely they or the contractors will need to access properties, and residents and business owners are being warned to be on their guard against bogus callers while work in on-going. Staff from both companies carry identity cards which can be checked by telephoning 0800 1 38 78 78.